Expandable reverse shoulder trial

ABSTRACT

An expandable shoulder trial for a reverse shoulder system is described. The trial includes a rotatably adjustable insert housed within a humeral cup. The insert has a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end having a concave recess therein adapted to receive a glenosphere prosthesis. The distal end of the insert includes a shaft, the shaft having a helical groove disposed on at least a portion thereof. A distal end of the humeral cup is inserted in a humeral stem. The humeral cup has a proximal end including a recess therein, the recess defined by a circular wall. A guide pin protrudes from the circular wall and is adapted to engage the helical groove of the shaft of the insert. The proximal end of the insert may rotate along an axis toward the proximal end of the humeral cup and along the same axis away from the proximal end of the humeral cup.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/974,424, filed on Oct. 12, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to an expandable reverse shoulder trial for reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and in particular it relates to such a trial including an expandable humeral cup configured to engage a rotatably adjustable insert.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The successful outcome of RSA depends greatly on proper soft tissue tension. Since the rotator cuff is either absent or severely compromised and irreparable, the stability of the shoulder joint comes from significant deltoid tension holding the ball and socket joint together.

Existing reverse shoulder systems require a surgeon to pick a trial liner and reduce the shoulder joint with that liner assembled into a humeral cup. If the correct liner is chosen, the soft tissue tension is significant, requiring the surgeon to apply extreme force to the humerus and surrounding soft tissues to reduce the joint. If no additional damage is done during this reduction process, the joint must then be dislocated to allow the surgeon to implant a joint replacement prosthesis.

Dislocation can often be more difficult than reduction and RSA patients often have compromised bone stock and/or soft tissue. The extreme force required to dislocate the joint again may put the patient at risk for other injury and soft tissue trauma. Furthermore, current systems require the surgeon to use a trial and error approach in establishing proper soft tissue tension. This often takes several attempts before adequate stability is achieved.

There currently exists a need for an adjustable trial including an insert that rotatably engages a humeral cup. The insert may first be inserted into the humeral cup and then rotated into a fully collapsed or neutral position. Such a device may allow a surgeon to easily reduce the shoulder joint. Preferably, the insert may then be advanced to a position where optimal deltoid tension is achieved. At this position, the insert and humeral cup are preferably calibrated such that the surgeon may determine a liner thickness corresponding to a dialed position of the insert with respect to the humeral cup. The terms “dialed position” or “dial in” indicate the distance between a proximal end of the insert and a proximal end of the humeral cup. This distance or liner thickness is measured by indications on the insert, such as calibration marks and/or attachment locations in reference to a marker on the humeral cup. This will be further explained in the detailed description.

The surgeon may also perform range of motion (“ROM”) and joint stability analyses during calibration of the trial. Preferably, the surgeon may then easily collapse the trial back to the neutral position and simply dislocate the joint. Further, the trial may also be preferably expanded prior to joint reduction and collapsed prior to joint dislocation repeatedly, depending on surgeon preference. Once the trial has been optimized, a surgeon preferably records the dialed position of the expanded trial. This measurement should preferably be the liner thickness. If this measurement does not correspond to the size of a particular liner in the system, the surgeon may select a next larger sized liner. At this time, the surgeon may remove the trial and then implant a prosthesis including a humeral cup and the selected liner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention greatly eases the reduction and dislocation of a shoulder joint during trialing because the surgeon may custom fit a trial to a patient after the joint has been reduced. This will greatly decrease the patient's exposure to intraoperative soft or hard tissue injuries related to extreme forces required to reduce and dislocate the joint. Moreover, the preferred one-step trialing approach of the present invention will also decrease surgical time, which is healthier for the patient and more efficient for the surgeon and hospital. Preferably, the expandable trial also decreases the size and cost of the overall instrument set, since only one trial per glenosphere diameter is generally required.

A main distinguishing characteristic of the adjustable trial from prior art devices is the fact that an insert may be first inserted into a humeral cup and then rotated into a collapsed or neutral position. This preferably allows the surgeon to easily reduce the joint. The trial, including the insert and humeral cup may then be expanded into a second position wherein optimal deltoid tension is preferably achieved. Here, the trial is calibrated such that the surgeon can determine which liner thickness corresponds to the dialed position on the trial.

Following ROM and joint stability analysis, the surgeon can easily collapse the trial back to the neutral position and simply dislocate the joint. The trial may also be expanded prior to joint reduction and collapsed prior to joint dislocation repeatedly, depending on surgeon preference.

The purpose of the present invention is to allow the surgeon to reduce the reverse shoulder trial and surrounding soft tissues into a relaxed state and/or dislocate a reduced shoulder joint while in a relaxed state. This will greatly ease the reduction of the joint. Once reduced, the surgeon may then “dial in” the appropriate liner thickness to achieve proper soft tissue tension. The trial is preferably designed to expand in discreet increments which correspond to liner prostheses that are available in multiple thicknesses. After a liner prosthesis is selected, it is then implanted with a humeral cup prosthesis.

An example of a surgical technique for the expandable reverse shoulder trial of the present invention is as follows:

Step 1: Resect the proximal humerus at a height determined by a typical humeral resection guide and surgical technique. At this point the surgeon may move to glenoid preparation (step 5) or continue with humerus preparation.

Step 2: If humerus preparation is selected, prepare the humerus distally in a standard fashion first using intramedullary reamers of increasing size according to surgeon preference.

Step 3: Prepare the proximal humerus using broaches of increasing size. Preferably, starting with a broach that is smaller than the final prosthesis based on preoperative templating.

Step 4: Perform calcar planning to prepare the proximal humerus to ensure proper seating of a humeral cup into the humeral stem and/or perform proximal reaming to create a seat for the cup. A trial humeral cup may also be inserted to assess seating and interference. The cup trial should be removed prior to preparing the glenoid surface.

Step 5: Target the center of the glenoid using the centering guide and drill a centering hole. Insert a guide-wire or guide pin into the centering hole and ream the glenoid face progressively until sub-chondral bone is thoroughly exposed.

Step 6: Place and attach a baseplate on the glenoid face in a desired location.

Step 7: Select an appropriate glenosphere trial and attach to the baseplate.

Step 8: Select an expanding trial including an insert having a recess diameter matching the glenosphere trial diameter. Ensure that the expanding trial is in the fully collapsed or neutral position and insert the trial assembly into a tapered bore in the humeral broach or stem. The joint may now be reduced into a laxed state. Deltoid and remaining cuff tension can then be dialed in by expanding the trial. Laxity, ROM and stability can now be evaluated with the trial components in place. Trialing can also be accomplished by repeatedly reducing the shoulder joint at a specific thickness which the surgeon has dialed in, evaluating the fit and function, collapsing the trial, and dislocating the shoulder.

Step 9: If different components (diameter etc.) are desired, substitutions may be made prior to implanting the prostheses. Once the trial has been optimized, the dialed thickness of the expanded trial is preferably recorded. This measurement preferably will be the thickness of the liner prosthesis.

Step 10: Remove the trial and implant the prostheses.

These steps are an exemplary method of the invention. It is to be understood that modifications can be made to these steps or some of these steps may not be performed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As used herein, when referring to bones or other parts of the body, the term “proximal” means closer to the heart and the term “distal” means more distant from the heart. The term “inferior” means lower or bottom and the term “superior” means upper or top. The term “anterior” means towards the front part of the body or the face and the term “posterior” means towards the back of the body. The term “medial” means toward the midline of the body and the term “lateral” means away from the midline of the body.

A first aspect of the present invention is an expandable shoulder trial having an insert including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end having a concave recess therein. Preferably, the distal end of the insert includes a shaft, the shaft having a helical groove disposed on at least a portion thereof. Preferably, the trial further includes a humeral cup having a proximal end including a recess therein, the recess defined by a circular wall for securing the insert shaft. A guide pin preferably protrudes from the circular wall into the recess, the guide pin adapted to engage the helical groove of the shaft of the insert. Preferably, the proximal end of the insert may be rotatably adjusted in a first axial direction toward the proximal end of the humeral cup to collapse the trial and alternatively in an opposite second axial direction away from the proximal end of the humeral cup to expand the trial.

In accordance with one embodiment of this first aspect of the present invention, the helical groove of the shaft preferably allows the insert when rotated to move in the first and second axial directions as the insert is rotated in only a first direction (i.e. clockwise or counter-clockwise direction). Preferably, the thickness and/or axial distance between the proximal end of humeral cup and the proximal end of the insert is adjusted by rotating the insert in either the first and or the second directions.

In accordance with yet another embodiment of this first aspect of the present invention, the proximal end of the insert preferably includes an outer face having a plurality of calibration marks arranged thereon.

In accordance with still yet another embodiment of this first aspect of the present invention, the outer face of the insert preferably includes a plurality of attachment locations adapted to engage an adjustment tool for rotating the insert.

In accordance with still yet another embodiment of this first aspect of the present invention, the proximal end of the humeral cup includes a front face having a marker arranged thereon. Preferably, the axial distance between the proximal end of humeral cup and the proximal end of the insert is indicated by the calibration marks on the insert in reference to the marker on the humeral cup.

The trial of the present invention may also be provided as an expandable shoulder trial including a humeral cup having an axis, the humeral cup including a recess defining a substantially circular wall about the axis, the circular wall having a guide portion extending outwardly therefrom. Preferably, the trial further includes an insert having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the insert having a concave recess disposed thereon, the distal end having a shaft extending therefrom towards the proximal end, the shaft of the insert preferably received in the recess of the cup. Preferably, the shaft includes a helical groove disposed on at least a portion thereof. Preferably, the guide portion is adapted to engage the helical groove of the shaft so that when the insert is rotatably adjusted the insert may move from a neutral position wherein the proximal end of the insert is substantially adjacent to the proximal end of the humeral cup, and into an expanded position wherein the proximal end of the insert is further away from the proximal end of the cup in the axial direction.

A second aspect of the present invention is an expandable shoulder trial including a humeral cup having a distal end portion coupled to a stem, the humeral cup further including a proximal end portion having a base and a circular wall defining a circular recess, the wall having a guide pin protruding therefrom. Preferably the trial further includes an insert having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion for insertion in the circular recess of the humeral cup, the distal end portion having a cam track extending toward the proximal end portion, the cam track adapted to receive the guide pin of the humeral cup. Preferably, the insert is rotatably adjustable along an axis in a first direction such that the distal end portion of the insert moves toward the base of the recess of the humeral cup.

In accordance with one embodiment of this second aspect of the present invention, the insert is rotatably adjustable along the axis in an opposite second direction wherein the distal end of the insert moves away from the base of the recess of the humeral cup.

In one aspect of a method of the present invention, the insert may be rotated in the first direction approximately 60° to reduce the distance between the proximal end of the humeral cup and the proximal end of the insert approximately 2 mm. Preferably, the insert includes an incremental stopping portion every 60° along the guide portion or cam-track of the shaft portion of the insert. As the insert is rotated in either a first or second direction the guide pin of the humeral cup may engage an incremental stopping portion of the insert. This may stop the insert from further rotation until a force great enough to overcome the friction between the guide pin and the incremental stopping portion is produced.

Generally, the present invention is an expandable reverse shoulder trial for RSA. In one aspect of the present invention, the trial is designed to take the place of a kit of trials and to provide the surgeon with greater intraoperative flexibility and ease of trialing during RSA. Prior art devices include trials of increasing thicknesses in “kit” form.

A third aspect of the present invention is an expandable trial comprising a first component having resiliently connected first and second side portions forming a slot therebetween, the first component including a recess having an opening with an initial first size. The trial preferably further comprises a second component having a shaft with a helical groove thereon, the helical groove adapted to engage a guide pin protruding into the recess of the first component, the shaft of the second component having a cross-sectional area greater than the initial first size of the opening of the recess, the shaft of the second component configured to be received in the recess of the first component when the opening of the recess is expanded to an expanded second size. The trial preferably further comprises at least one third component adapted to at least one of the first and second side portions of the first component such that movement of the at least one third component in a first direction expands the slot of the first component to expand the initial first size of the opening of the recess to an expanded second size greater than the cross-sectional area of the shaft of the second component.

In accordance with one embodiment of this third aspect is that the recess of the first component is preferably tapered such that a diameter at an opening of the recess is slightly smaller than that of a diameter of a base of the recess.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the subject matter of the present invention and the various advantages thereof can be realized by reference to the following detailed description in which reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a humeral cup according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a front view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1 c is a side view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is a bottom view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a humeral cup according to the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a front view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a side view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D is a bottom view of the humeral cup according to FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of an insert according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a front view of the insert according to FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a side view of the insert according to FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of an insert according to the present invention.

FIG. 4B is a side view of the insert according to FIG. 4A rotated to the left.

FIG. 4C is a detail view A of a section of the insert according to FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5A is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of an insert of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a front view of the insert according to FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a side view of the insert according to FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5D is a side view of the insert similar to FIG. 5C but rotated to the left.

FIG. 6A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of an insert according to the present invention.

FIG. 6B is a side view of the insert according to FIG. 6A rotated to the left.

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of an adjustment tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B is a front view of the adjustment tool according to FIG. 7A rotated 180°.

FIG. 7C is a side view of the adjustment tool according to FIG. 7A from the left side.

FIG. 8 shows an axis of the humeral cup of FIG. 2A aligned with an axis of the insert of FIG. 5A prior to assembly.

FIG. 9A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 1A and the insert of FIG. 3A in a fully collapsed or neutral position.

FIG. 9B is an assembled isometric view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 9A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 9C is an assembled front view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 9B.

FIG. 9D is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 9C.

FIG. 10A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 1A and the insert of FIG. 3A in an expanded position.

FIG. 10B is an assembled isometric view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 10A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 10C is an assembled front view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 10B.

FIG. 10D is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 10C.

FIG. 11A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 2A and the insert of FIG. 3A in a fully collapsed or neutral position.

FIG. 11B is an assembled front view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 11A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 11C is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 11B.

FIG. 12A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 2A and the insert of FIG. 3A in an expanded position.

FIG. 12B is an assembled front view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 12A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 12C is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 12B.

FIG. 13A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 2A and the insert of FIG. 5A in a fully collapsed or neutral position.

FIG. 13B is an assembled front view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 13A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 13C is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 13B.

FIG. 14A is an assembled view of the humeral cup of FIG. 2A and the insert of FIG. 5A in an expanded position.

FIG. 14B is an assembled front view of the humeral cup and insert of FIG. 14A assembled to an exemplary humeral stem.

FIG. 14C is an assembled side view of the humeral cup, insert, and humeral stem according to FIG. 14B.

FIG. 15 is an exploded isometric view of an alternative embodiment of an adjustable trial of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a first component or humeral cup.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of the first component shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a top view of the first component shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a side view of the first component shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the first component taken along line A-A of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21A is a front view of a second component or insert.

FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of the second component taken along line B-B of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 21C is a side view of the second component shown in FIG. 21A.

FIG. 21D is a cross-sectional view of the second component taken along line C-C of FIG. 21D.

FIG. 22A is a side view of a third component or set screw.

FIG. 22B is a top view of the third component shown in FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23 is an exploded isometric view of an adjustable trial of the present invention having an alternative means for locking the set screws of the trail in place.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1D, there is shown an embodiment of a humeral cup of the present invention designated generally by reference numeral 10. As shown in those figures, cup 10 includes a proximal end 12 and a distal end 14. Cup 10 preferably further includes a wall 16 and a base 18 defining a recess 20. Wall 16 is preferably circular, but may be other geometrical shapes such as octagonal or elliptical for example. Recess 20 defines a central axis 22 as shown in FIG. 1C. Preferably, a guide portion 23 protrudes from wall 16. Guide portion 23 is preferably configured as a pin.

In the preferred embodiment, proximal end 12 and distal end 14 of cup 10 are not coplanar. Between distal end surface 14 and proximal end surface 12 is a hemispherical outer surface 24. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, a cup 10′ further includes a concave surface 26 located between a proximal end surface 12′ and a distal end surface 14′. Surface 26 faces medially and is preferably configured to allow for greater articulation of cup 10′ with respect to a scapula bone after cup 10′ has been trialed in the body. Cups 10 and 10′ generally include all of the same features except for cup 10′ including concave surface 26 and a partially hemispherical outer surface 24′.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, surface 26 may include a bore 28′ associated therewith. Bore 28′ may initially extend from surface 26 through wall 16′ into recess 20′. Generally, bore 28′ is configured to receive the guide pin 23′ therein. Preferably, guide pin 23′ has an end which protrudes outwardly from wall 16′ into recess 20′. After guide pin 23′ is located in position, such as shown generally in FIGS. 2A-2C, bore 28′ may be filled such that surface 26 is a curved flat surface throughout.

Preferably, distal end 14, 14′ of cup 10, 10′ includes a trunion 30, 30′ protruding distally therefrom. Trunion 30 is preferably configured to mate with a corresponding bore in a proximal end of a humeral stem 80 as shown for example in FIGS. 9A-9D. Preferably, trunion 30, 30′ has a male taper that may easily be secured to the corresponding tapered bore of humeral stem 80. Other quick-connect mechanisms known in the art may be used to connect cup 10, 10′ to a humeral stem, for example, threaded connections, other pressure-fit connections, and clasps.

Proximal end 12, 12′ of cup 10, 10′ preferably has a substantially flat proximal surface portion 32, 32′. Preferably, proximal surface portion 32, 32′ includes a central rounded edge 34, 34′ which blends with wall 16, 16′ and has a rounded edge 36, 36′ which blends with outer surface 24, 24′.

Preferably, surfaces 24, 24′ and 32, 32′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ include a marker 38, 38′ arranged thereon. Marker 38, 38′ is preferably of any configuration that gives a user, such as a surgeon or other operating room personnel, a visual frame of reference for the position of an insert with respect to humeral cup 10, 10′.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, there is shown a first embodiment of the insert of the present invention designated generally by reference numeral 40. Preferably, insert 40 includes a proximal end portion 42 and a distal end 44 portion, the proximal end portion 42 having a proximal surface 52 including a proximally facing concave recessed surface 46 therein. Preferably, distal end portion 44 of insert 40 includes a shaft 48, the shaft having a helical groove 50 disposed on at least a portion thereof. Guide pin 23, 23′ protruding from circular wall 16, 16′ into recess 20, 20′ is configured to engage helical groove 50 of shaft 48 such that while guide pin 23, 23′ is engaged with helical groove 50 at least a portion of shaft 48 is located within recess 20, 20′.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, an alternative embodiment of insert 40 may include a plurality of incremental stopping features or indents 51 along groove 50. In a preferred embodiment, each indent 51 is located approximately every 60° along groove 50. As insert 40 having indents 51 is rotated in a first or second direction D1, D2, guide pin 23, 23′ of cup 10, 10′ may engage an indent 51 of insert 40. Indent 51 is configured to stop insert 40 from further rotation until a force great enough to overcome the friction between guide pin 23, 23′ and indent 51 is produced.

Preferably, insert 40 may be rotatably adjusted about axis 22 by rotating in a first direction D1 as generally depicted on FIG. 3A, such that insert 40 may move into recess 20, 20′ of humeral cup 10, 10′. Alternatively, insert 40 may be rotatably adjusted about axis 22 in an opposite second direction D2, such that insert 40 may move out of recess 20, 20′ of humeral cup 10, 10′. Preferably, the axial distance between proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and proximal surface 52 of proximal end portion 42 of insert 40 is adjusted along axis 22 by rotating insert 40 in either first and/or second directions D1, D2.

As shown in FIG. 3A, proximal end surface 52 preferably includes a plurality of calibration marks 54 arranged thereon. Preferably, proximal end portion 42 of insert 40 further includes a plurality of alternating convex and concave side faces, 56 and 58 respectively. As shown in FIG. 3A, calibration marks 54 may extend from proximal surface 52 onto side faces 56, 58. Side faces 56, 58 may further include a plurality of attachment locations 60 therein. Preferably, attachment locations 60 are adapted to receive an adjustment tool 61 shown generally in FIGS. 7A-7C. A surgeon or any other operating room personnel may use adjustment tool 61 to rotate insert 40 along axis 22 in either the first and/or second directions D1, D2.

Preferably, adjustment tool 61 includes a handle portion 62 having a shaft 64 protruding therefrom, the shaft having a tip 66 protruding therefrom. Handle portion 62 may further include a knurled portion 68 for easy gripping. It is contemplated by the present invention that tool 61 may have many alternative configurations. Tool 61 is an exemplary instrument for easily rotating insert 40 along axis 22 in either the first and/or second directions D1, D2.

As stated above, calibration marks 54 of insert 40 may also be arranged on side faces 56, 58. Preferably, the axial distance between proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and surface 52 of proximal end portion 42 of insert 40 is measured by calibration marks 54 on any of surfaces 52, 56, and 58 of insert 40 in reference to marker 38, 38′ of humeral cup 10, 10′.

For example, marker 38, 38′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ may be lined up with one of the calibration marks 54 of insert 40. Preferably, insert 40 may then be rotated in direction D1 approximately 60° to reduce the distance between proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and proximal end surface 52 of insert 40 approximately 2 mm. Insert 40 may then be rotated another 60° in direction D1 until a second calibration mark 54 to the left of the calibration mark 54 is now instead lined up with marker 38, 38′ of humeral cup 10, 10′. In this case, the distance between proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and proximal end surface 52 of insert 40 would be further reduced approximately 2 mm for a total of 4 mm.

One skilled in the art would understand that the distance between calibration marks may be less than or greater than 60° apart. Preferably, calibration marks are between 30° and 120° apart. More preferably, calibration marks are between 30° and 60° apart. Further, one skilled in the art would understand that the pitch of groove 50 determines the distance that insert 40 collapses or expands between calibration marks. Preferably, the distance between proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and proximal end surface 52 of insert 40 may be reduced or expanded 0.5 mm to 4 mm between calibration marks 54. Further, an exact number of calibration marks 54 would not be needed to indicate a distance X that insert 40 may travel in moving from the fully collapsed or neutral position as shown for example in FIGS. 9A-9D, to an expanded position, shown generally in FIGS. 10A-10D. For example, if the surgeon determines that proper deltoid tension has occurred after expanding the trial approximately 11 mm, attachment locations 60 may be located between calibration marks 54. In this case, the surgeon may approximate the distance insert 40 has collapsed or expanded.

In the preferred embodiment, insert 40 may collapse and/or expand between 0 and 12 mm. More preferably, insert 40 may collapse or expand 6 mm. It is contemplated in the present invention that more or less than six calibration marks 54 may be arranged on insert 40.

Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, a concave side face 58 of insert 40 is configured to align with surface 26 of humeral cup 10′. It is within the scope of the present invention for one of convex surfaces 56 of insert 40 to be located adjacent to bottom surface 26 as well.

An alternative embodiment of insert 40 of the present invention is designated generally by reference numeral 40′ as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D. Preferably, insert 40′ includes a proximal end portion 42′ and a distal end portion 44′, the proximal end portion 42′ having a proximal surface 52′ including a proximally facing concave recessed surface 46′ therein. Preferably, distal end portion 44′ of insert 40′ includes a shaft 48′ having a helical groove 50′ disposed on at least a portion thereof. Guide pin 23, 23′ protruding from circular wall 16, 16′ into recess 20, 20′ is configured to engage helical groove 50′ of shaft 48′ such that while guide pin 23, 23′ is engaged with helical groove 50′ at least a portion of shaft 48′ is located within recess 20, 20′.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, an alternative embodiment of insert 40′ may include a plurality of incremental stopping features or indents 51′ along groove 50′. In a preferred embodiment, each indent 51′ is located approximately every 60° along groove 50′. As insert 40′ having indents 51′ is rotated in a first or second direction D1, D2, guide pin 23, 23′ of cup 10, 10′ may engage an indent 51′ of insert 40′. Indent 51′ is configured to stop insert 40′ from further rotation until a force great enough to overcome the friction between guide pin 23, 23′ and indent 51′ is produced.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, helical groove 50′ of shaft 48′ of insert 40′ preferably allows proximal end portion 42′ of insert 40′ to move away from proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ and thereafter toward proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′ as insert 40′ is rotated in only the first direction D1 . For example, if insert 40′ is in the fully collapsed or neutral position as shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, generally defined by shaft 48′ of insert 40′ being fully seated in recess 20, 20′ a surgeon or other operating room personnel may rotate insert 40′ in first direction D1 . This rotation will cause shaft 48′ of insert 40′ to move out of recess 20, 20′ wherein proximal end portion 42′ will thus move away from proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′. Eventually, the trial will be in a fully expanded position, shown generally in FIGS. 14A-14C. This is generally the point where an outer surface 52′ of proximal end portion 42′ is furthest away from proximal end 12, 12′ while insert 40′ is still assembled or engaged to humeral cup 10, 10′. Because of the configuration of helical groove 50′, if insert 40′ continues to rotate in first direction D1 , proximal end portion 42′ will begin to start moving back towards proximal end 12, 12′ of humeral cup 10, 10′.

Preferably, proximal surface 52′ includes a plurality of calibration marks 54′ arranged thereon. Preferably, proximal end portion 42′ of insert 40′ further includes a plurality of alternating convex and concave side faces, 56′ and 58′ respectively. Side faces 56′, 58′ may further include a plurality of attachment locations 60′ therein. Preferably, attachment locations 60′ are adapted to receive a portion of adjustment tool 61. A surgeon or any other operating room personnel may use adjustment tool 61 to rotate insert 40′ along axis 22′ in either the first and/or second directions D1, D2.

Referring to FIG. 15, there is shown a further embodiment of an adjustable trial of the present invention designated generally by reference numeral 96. As shown in this exploded assembly view, trial 96 preferably includes a first component or humeral cup 100, a second component or insert 140, and a third component or set-screw 190.

FIGS. 16-20 show an embodiment of first component 100 of trial 96. As shown in those figures, first component 100 includes a proximal end 112 and a distal end 114. First component 100 further includes resiliently connected first and second side portions 113, 115 such that preferably only a narrow portion of material of first component 100 keeps side portions 113, 115 connected as best shown in FIG. 18. A slot 139 is formed between side portions 113, 115. The material properties of first component 100 preferably allow first component 100 to be rigid enough to firmly hold second component 140 in place when slot 139 of the first component has an initial unexpanded width. Unexpanded width of slot 139 of first component 100 preferably refers to the natural or original manufactured width of slot 139 without third component 190 adapted to first component 100 and acting to expand slot 139. In one embodiment, slot 139 has a width of 0.04 inches when an opening of a recess 120 of first component 100 has an unexpanded diameter of 0.995 inches. It should be understood that these dimensions are only exemplary and may be larger or smaller without departing from the scope of the present invention.

At least one of first and second side portions 113, 115 of first component 100 include a bore 170. A portion of bore 170 is preferably threaded. Bore 170 is adapted to receive third component 190 therein. First component 100 preferably further includes a wall 116 and a base 118 defining a recess 120. Wall 116 is preferably circular, but may be other geometrical shapes such as octagonal or elliptical for example. Recess 120 defines a central axis 122 as shown in FIG. 15. Movement of second component 140 with respect to the first component 100 occurs along axis 122. Preferably, a guide portion or pin 123 protrudes from wall 116.

As shown in FIGS. 16-17, surface 124 of first component may include a bore 128 associated therewith. Bore 128 may initially extend from a part-spherical surface 124 through wall 116 and into recess 120. Generally, bore 128 is configured to receive guide pin 123 therein. Preferably, guide pin 123 has an end which protrudes outwardly from wall 116 into recess 120. After guide pin 123 is located in position, such as shown generally in FIGS. 17 and 20, bore 128 may be filled such that surface 124 is a curved smooth surface throughout.

Proximal end 112 of first component 100 preferably has a substantially flat proximal surface portion 132. Preferably, proximal surface portion 132 includes a central rounded edge 134 which blends with wall 116 and has a rounded edge 136 which blends with outer surface 124.

As shown in FIGS. 18-19, proximal end 112 and distal end 114 of first component 100 are coplanar, but in further embodiments proximal end 112 and distal end 114 may not be coplanar. Between distal end surface 114 and proximal end surface 112 is a part-spherical outer surface 124 configured to be smooth such that when inserted in the body it does not damage surrounding tissue or any other features of the body that first component 100 may come in contact with. Preferably, distal end 114 of first component 100 includes a trunion 130 protruding distally therefrom. Trunion 130 is preferably configured to mate with a corresponding bore in a proximal end of a humeral stem 80 as shown for example in FIGS. 9A-9D. Preferably, trunion 130 has a male taper that may easily be secured to the corresponding tapered bore of humeral stem 80. Other quick-connect mechanisms known in the art may be used to first component 100 to a humeral stem, for example, threaded connections, other pressure-fit connections, and clasps.

FIG. 20 is a sectional view of first component 100 taken along a line A-A of FIG. 19 which is parallel to proximal and distal ends 112, 114 of first component through a diameter of bore 128 and first and second threaded bores 170. First component 100 includes a first bore 170 associated with first side section 113 and a second bore 170 associated with second side section 113. A longitudinal axis 117 preferably extends through the center of each bore 170. First and second bores 170 are preferably oriented perpendicular to plane 137 of first component 100.

Referring to FIGS. 21A-D, there is shown a further embodiment of an insert or second component designated generally by reference numeral 140. Preferably, second component 140 includes a proximal end portion 142 and a distal end 144 portion, the proximal end portion 142 having a proximal surface 152 including a proximally facing concave recessed surface 146 therein. Preferably, distal end portion 144 of second component 140 includes a shaft 148, the shaft having a helical groove or track 150 disposed on at least a portion thereof. Guide pin 123 protruding from wall 116 into recess 120 of first component 100 is configured to engage helical groove 150 of shaft 148 such that while guide pin 123 is engaged with helical groove 150 at least a portion of shaft 148 is located within recess 120.

Second component 140 may have a plurality of incremental stopping features or indents 151 along groove 150. In one embodiment, each indent 151 is located approximately every 60° along groove 150. As second component 140 having indents 151 is rotated in a first or second direction D1, D2 (directions shown in FIG. 5, for example), guide pin 123 of first component 100 may engage an indent 151 of second component 140. Indent 151 is preferably configured to act as an additional means for maintaining the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100. In the preferred embodiment, shaft 148 preferably has a diameter of 0.999 inches throughout the length thereof, which is slightly larger than the 0.995 inch unexpanded diameter adjacent a top portion of wall 116 of first component 100. Adjacent a bottom portion of circular wall 116 near base 118 of recess 120 has a diameter approximately 1.000 inches. Wall 116 therefore preferably tapers from a slightly smaller diameter than shaft 148 near the top portion of wall 116 to a slightly larger diameter than shaft 148 near the bottom portion of wall 116.

Preferably, second component 140 may be rotatably adjusted about axis 122 by rotating in first direction D1 , such that second component 140 may move into recess 120 of first component 100. Additionally, second component 140 may be rotatably adjusted about axis 122 in opposite second direction D2, such that second component 140 may move out of recess 120 of first component 100. Preferably, the axial distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and proximal surface 152 of proximal end portion 142 of second component 140 is adjusted along axis 122 by rotating second component 140 in either first and/or second directions D1, D2.

As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21C, proximal end surface 152 of second component 140 preferably includes a plurality of calibration marks 154 arranged thereon. Calibration marks 154 may be any designation that gives the user a visual reference of the current position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100. Calibration marks 154 may extend from proximal surface 152 onto side face 156. Side face 156 may further include a plurality of attachment locations 160 therein. Preferably, attachment locations 160 are adapted to receive an adjustment tool 61 shown generally in FIGS. 7A-7C. A surgeon or any other operating room personnel may use adjustment tool 61 to rotate second component 140 along axis 122 in either first and/or second directions D1, D2.

Preferably, the axial distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and surface 152 of proximal end portion 142 of second component 140 is measured by calibration marks 154 on any of surfaces 152 and 156 of second component 140 in reference to marker 138 of first component 100, which references the middle of slot 139 (plane 137) between first and second side portions 113, 115.

For example, marker 138 of first component 100 may be lined up with one of calibration marks 154 of second component 140. Preferably, second component 140 may then be rotated in direction D1 approximately 60° to reduce the distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and proximal end surface 152 of second component 140 approximately 2 mm. Second component 140 may then be rotated another 60° in direction D1 until a second calibration mark 154 to the left of the calibration mark 154 is now instead lined up with marker 138 of first component 100. In this case, the distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and proximal end surface 152 of second component 140 would be further reduced approximately 2 mm for a total of 4 mm.

The distance between calibration marks 154 may be less than or greater than 60° apart. Preferably, calibration marks 154 are between 30° and 120° apart. More preferably, calibration marks 154 are between 30° and 60° apart. Further, the pitch of groove 150 determines the distance that second component 140 collapses or expands between calibration marks 154. Preferably, the distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and proximal end surface 152 of second component 140 may be reduced or increased 0.5 mm to 4 mm between calibration marks 154. Further, an exact number of calibration marks 154 would not be needed to indicate a distance X that second component 140 may travel in moving from a fully collapsed or neutral position to an expanded position. For example, if the surgeon determines that proper deltoid tension has occurred after expanding the trial approximately 11 mm, attachment locations 160 may be located between calibration marks 154. In this case, the surgeon may approximate the distance second component 140 has collapsed or expanded with respect to first component 100.

Second component 140 may collapse and/or expand between 0 and 12 mm. For example, second component 140 may collapse or expand 6 mm. It is contemplated that more or less than six calibration marks 154 may be arranged on second component 140.

Referring to FIGS. 22A-B, a set-screw or third component 190 is shown. Third component 190 preferably includes a generally convex proximal portion 192, a first threaded portion 194, a recessed portion 196, a second threaded portion 198 and a distal engagement portion 199.

In a method of practicing the present invention trial 96 is configured to lock the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100 when the opening of recess 120 of first component 100 has an initial first size which may be referred to as an unexpanded diameter when wall 116 is circular, and more specifically, once trial 96 is dialed in as described above. Resiliently connected first and second side portions 113,115 of first component 100 are preferably configured to firmly hold the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100 when first component 100 has an unexpanded diameter and allow the second component 140 to move with respect to the first component 100 when the opening of recess 120 of first component is expanded to an expanded second size which may be referred to as an expanded diameter.

In order to insert a portion of second component 140 into recess 120 of first component 100, the diameter of wall 116 of first component 100 preferably has to be expanded. The expansion of the diameter of wall 116 preferably occurs as slot 139 increases in width. In one embodiment, slot 139 may increase in width as third component 190 adapted to first side portion 113 is advanced in a first direction through bore 170 of first side portion 113 until convex portion 192 of third component 170 comes in contact with either a front face 143 of second side portion 115 or with the convex portion 192 of another third component 170 adapted to second side portion 115. In order to move third component 190 with respect to first component 100, a tool (not shown) is adapted to engage a distal engagement portion such as a hex socket 199 of third component 190. After third component 170 adapted to first side portion 113 comes in contact with second side portion 115 or a third component 170 adapted to second side portion 115 and continues to advance through bore 170 of first side portion 113 in a proximal direction, the width of slot 139 increases. Once the diameter of wall 116 of first component 100 increases, pin 123 of first component may travel along helical groove 150 of second component 140 such that the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100 may be rotatably adjusted.

Generally, second component 140 is rotatably adjusted with respect to first component 100 until trial 96 is in the collapsed or neutral position. Preferably, trial 96 may now be connected to a humeral stem and trialing may begin. When trial 96 is in the collapsed position, the tension of the patient's deltoid should be deficient. With wall 116 of first component 100 having an expanded diameter, second component 140 is rotatably adjusted in a proximal direction such that the distance between proximal end 112 of first component 100 and proximal end surface 152 of second component 140 is increased such that the deltoid tension of the patient also increases. Second component 140 is preferably rotatably adjusted until the surgeon determines that optimal deltoid tension has been achieved. In order to lock the position of second component with respect to first component 100, third component 190 is moved in an opposite second direction through bore 170 of first component 100 such that the width of slot 139 decreases thereby decreasing the diameter of circular wall 116 of first component 100. Once the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100 is locked, the surgeon may determine how much the adjustable trial has been expanded by visualizing calibration marks 154 of second component in relation to marker 138 of first component as described above.

It should be understood that the surgeon may visualize how much the adjustable trial has been expanded while trialing takes places as well. Indents 151 included in track 150 of second component 140 act as a further means to limit the rotation of second component 140 with respect to first component 100.

Generally, if the left shoulder of a patient is being operated on, the surgeon preferably moves the third component 170 adapted to the second side portion 115 of first component in order to affect the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100. Alternatively, if the right shoulder of a patient is being operated on, the surgeon preferably moves the third component 170 adapted to the first side portion 113 of first component 100 in order to affect the position of second component 140 with respect to first component 100. Therefore, trial 96 has a beneficial configuration to aid in the trialing of left and right shoulder procedures, as well as for accommodating left and right handed surgeons.

In the embodiment of trial 96 shown in FIG. 15, stop pins 171 may be inserted into holes 173 on either or both the left and right side portions 113,115 and advanced into bores 170 such that a portion of pins 171 engage recess portion 196 of one or both of the third components 190 to maintain the position of third component 190 with respect to bore 170 of first component 100. As shown in FIG. 15, holes 173 in left and right side portion 113,115 have a parallel orientation. In another embodiment of trial 96 shown in FIG. 23, holes 173 are shown have a perpendicular orientation. Depending on the anatomy of the patient, it may be beneficial to use either one of the trials shown in FIGS. 15 and 23 to limit contact with surrounding tissue of the patient or any other features of the body that pins 171 may come in contact with when inserted or removed from holes 173.

The ease in which the diameter of circular wall 116 of first component 100 increases and decreases depends on the material properties of first component 100. First component 100 may be made of any biocompatible material. Preferably, first component 100 is made of titanium, but may be made of plastic such that it is lightweight and disposable at the end of a procedure. Making the first component out of plastic, for instance, may reduce the force requirements needed to increase the diameter of circular wall 116 of first component 100.

While the embodiments discussed herein have focused on the shoulder, it is contemplated that such an expandable trial can be used on the hip as well as other joints in the body. For example, the position of a polyethylene bearing insert may be adjusted with respect to an acetabular cup in order to determine the optimal position of the head of a femoral stem during a trialing process.

Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. 

1. An expandable trial comprising: a first component having resiliently connected first and second side portions forming a slot therebetween, the first component including a recess having an opening with an initial first size; a second component having a shaft with a helical groove thereon, the helical groove adapted to engage a guide pin protruding into the recess of the first component, the shaft of the second component having a cross-sectional area greater than the initial first size of the opening of the recess, the shaft of the second component configured to be received in the recess of the first component when the opening of the recess is expanded to an expanded second size; and at least one third component adapted to at least one of the first and second side portions of the first component such that movement of the at least one third component in a first direction expands the slot of the first component to expand the initial first size of the opening of the recess to the expanded second size greater than the cross-sectional area of the shaft of the second component.
 2. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein the recess of the first component is tapered such that a diameter at an opening of the recess is slightly smaller than that of a diameter of a base of the recess.
 3. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein movement of the at least one third component in a second direction collapses the slot of the first component.
 4. The expandable trial of claim 3, wherein movement of the at least one third component in either the first or second directions is rotational movement.
 5. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein a first of the at least one third component is adapted to the first side portion of the first component and a second of the at least third component is adapted to the second side portion of the first component.
 6. The expandable trial of claim 5, wherein the first and second at least one third components each have an exterior face configured to engage one another.
 7. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second side portions of the first components includes a threaded bore therein and the at least one third component is threadably engaged to the at least one of the first and second side portions.
 8. The expandable trial of claim 7, wherein movement of the at least one third component in the threaded bore of the first or second side portions causes the slot of the first component to expand as the at least one third component moves relative to the first or second side portions.
 9. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein the recess of the body has a longitudinal axis parallel to a vertical plane of the at least one slot.
 10. The expandable trial of claim 9, wherein the second component is rotatably adjustable in the recess of the body along the longitudinal axis of the recess.
 11. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein the helical groove of the shaft of the second component is configured such that rotation of the second component in a first direction allows the second component to move in both first and opposite axial directions.
 12. The expandable trial of claim 1, wherein a proximal end portion of the second component includes an outer face having a plurality of calibration marks arranged thereon.
 13. The expandable trial of claim 12, wherein an outer face of the second component includes a plurality of attachment locations adapted to be engaged by an adjustment tool.
 14. The expandable trial of claim 13, wherein a proximal end surface of the first component has a marker thereon.
 15. The expandable trial of claim 14, wherein the axial distance between the proximal end surface of the first component and the proximal end portion of the second component is adjusted by rotating the second component in either the first or an opposite second axial direction.
 16. The expandable trial of claim 15, wherein the axial distance between the proximal end surface of the first component and a proximal face of the proximal end portion of the second component is indicated by the calibration marks of the second component in reference to the marker of the first component.
 17. The expandable trial of claim 16, wherein the calibration marks are located at 60° increments.
 18. The expandable shoulder trial of claim 17, wherein rotating the second component in the first direction approximately 60° reduces the distance between the proximal end surface of the first component and the proximal face of the proximal end portion of the insert approximately 2 mm.
 19. An expandable trial comprising: a first component having resiliently connected first and second side portions forming a slot therebetween, the slot having a first width, the first component including a recess defined by a circular wall; a second component rotatably adjustable in the recess of the first component, the second component having a helical groove adapted to engage a guide pin protruding from the circular wall of the first component into the recess; and at least one third component adapted to at least one of the first and second side portions of the first component such that movement of the at least one third component in a first direction expands the width of the slot to a second width, wherein the second component is rotatably locked in the recess of the first component when the slot has the first width and the second component is rotatably adjustable in the recess of the first component when the guide pin is able to freely move along the helical groove of the second component when the slot has the second width. 